Precamp analysis: RBs

Raiders RB Justin Fargas is expected to make one last stand this season.

With training camp in Napa just six days away, here’s a look at the running backs — by far the most dependable position group on this side of the ball.

And be sure of this: for all the talk of reviving the vertical passing game, this offense will remain a run-first offense that will rank in the NFL’s top-five.

Sidenote: no new news to report on rookie contracts. Talks have been under way this month, and NFL.com reports third-round defensive end Matt Shaughnessy is close to signing, but sixth-round tight end Brandon Myers remains the only rookie draft pick known to be locked in.

On to the running backs …

Projected RB starter: Justin Fargas. I know this will make most fans groan and complain, but coach Tom Cable still likes how Fargas handles the heavy workload.

I’d be stunned if Fargas finishes the season as the starter, if only because he’ll inevitably get hurt and Darren McFadden will take over the starting job. It’s just a matter of time, but not just yet.

Initially though, the Raiders want a dependable back willing to take the lion’s share of blows to wear down the defense. That person will remain Fargas — for now.

There’s a school of thought out there that Fargas could be cut to save money, but the Raiders already restructured his deal in January to levels they were pleased with. As for his limited carries in the offseason, it was the same way in 2008 to preserve his body.

Projected FB starter: Lorenzo Neal. The alltime great became an instant leader the minute he signed with the Raiders. He’s a power-game blocker by trade, but is expected to adjust enough to work in the zone-blocking scheme.

Projected RB backup:Darren McFadden. The Raiders still aren’t sold on his durability after an injury-plagued rookie season — remember Al Davis’ quote about not knowing what he can do yet in February? They’ll use him as a change-of-pace back early on and get him involved as a receiver, then go from there. He’s also someone who will always be in the game inside the 20.

The longer he holds up, the sooner he becomes the featured back.

Michael Bush will also get fazed (ed. note — umm, phased) in more than he was last year but won’t be considered for everydown duty. Short-yardage downs and fourth-quarter cameos could work out nicely for him. The key for him is to be patient and wait his turn without brooding. The Raiders have started a third back in each of the past three seasons because of attrition. He’ll get his chance.

Projected FB backup:Gary Russell, who can also chip in at running back when bodies aren’t healthy. Oren O’Neal hasn’t set foot on a football field since a major knee injury last season. The Physically Unable to Perform list could be his first stop in Napa.

The others: RB Louis Rankin and FB Marcel Reece could wind up back on the practice squad because of the numbers game. FB Luke Lawton’s best hope as a special teams guy is a slow return from O’Neal.